April 19 is now officially Reverend Johnnie Johnson Jr. Day in the city of Albany.

Johnson's family members gathered in Mayor Dorothy Hubbard's office Thursday for the signing of the proclamation.

Johnson was recognized for his influence on the community in the fight for equality after leading a walkout with 280 employees that were on strike over unfair labor practices and unequal pay for black workers.

In 1972, Johnson filed a lawsuit against the city of Albany for equality in the workplace.

Johnson passed away in January of 2000 but his son Yaz said his legacy lives on.

"It's a great honor and it actually gives me joy within my body, within my heart because of the fact of what my father did for the city of Albany," said Yaz.

Yaz said he was happy to be surrounded by his family for this occasion.